{"id":4306,"date":"2024-08-29T13:30:46","date_gmt":"2024-08-29T13:30:46","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/staging.elixirrdigital.com\/us\/2024\/08\/29\/how-digital-copywriters-can-prepare-for-the-european-accessibility-act\/"},"modified":"2025-06-03T09:05:26","modified_gmt":"2025-06-03T09:05:26","slug":"how-digital-copywriters-can-prepare-for-the-european-accessibility-act","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/staging.elixirrdigital.com\/us\/2024\/08\/29\/how-digital-copywriters-can-prepare-for-the-european-accessibility-act\/","title":{"rendered":"How Digital Copywriters Can Prepare For The European Accessibility Act"},"content":{"rendered":"

The European Accessibility Act (EAA) is set to transform the digital landscape, mandating inclusivity by 2025 and making the web a place where everyone\u2014regardless of their abilities or temporary impairments\u2014can fully engage, connect, and experience digital content without barriers.<\/span><\/p>\n

For digital copywriters<\/a>, this isn\u2019t just a checkbox exercise\u2014it\u2019s an opportunity to be part of a meaningful overhaul that makes the web truly inclusive and accessible to everyone.<\/p>\n

Let\u2019s explore what the EAA means for you and how you can ensure your writing meets the new standards.<\/p>\n

Alt text: Paint a picture with words<\/h2>\n

Alt text is more than just a field to fill\u2014it’s your chance to make visual content accessible to those who can\u2019t see it. Imagine a user relying on a screen reader to navigate the web; alt text gives them the context they need, transforming images into something meaningful.<\/p>\n

Plus, detailed alt text doesn\u2019t just serve accessibility; it\u2019s a secret weapon for SEO<\/a>, helping your content reach more eyes while making the internet a little more inclusive. So, next time you\u2019re adding alt text, think of it as storytelling<\/strong>\u2014because every user deserves to be part of the story.<\/p>\n

Put it into practice<\/h3>\n

Instead of writing \u201ca meeting,\u201d describe the scene\u2014\u201cFour colleagues from different backgrounds brainstorming around a table, notes scattered around them.\u201d This not only makes the image come alive for someone who can\u2019t see it but also adds value to your content.<\/p>\n

Consider how this works on e-commerce sites. A shopper browsing a catalogue can\u2019t see a \u201cstylish handbag.\u201d But with descriptive alt text like \u201cred leather handbag with gold accents, adjustable strap, and sleek design,\u201d they can get a clear picture of what\u2019s on offer. It\u2019s a small step that makes a world of difference.<\/p>\n

Keep your writing simple and clear<\/h2>\n

Writing for accessibility isn\u2019t about dumbing down your content; it\u2019s about opening it up. The average reading level in the UK is around 9 years old<\/strong><\/a>, which means simple, clear language isn\u2019t just nice\u2014it\u2019s necessary.<\/p>\n

You\u2019re not just writing for professionals or experts; you\u2019re writing for people who may have cognitive disabilities, are non-native speakers, or simply want to understand your message without a struggle.<\/p>\n

Put it into practice<\/h3>\n

Instead of saying \u201coptimise your operational strategies,\u201d go for \u201cimprove how you work.\u201d This shift doesn\u2019t just make your content more approachable; it makes your message resonate. And remember, clarity isn\u2019t boring\u2014it\u2019s powerful.<\/p>\n

Structure is the roadmap your readers need<\/h2>\n

A well-structured piece of writing is like a map\u2014it guides your readers effortlessly through your content. For those using assistive technologies, clear headings, short paragraphs, and bullet points aren\u2019t just helpful; they\u2019re essential. Imagine someone navigating your content through a screen reader: clear sections and straightforward language can make all the difference.<\/p>\n

And it\u2019s not just about screen readers; a clear structure helps people with cognitive disabilities or attention difficulties stay focused and engaged. A long, dense block of text can feel overwhelming, but bite-sized pieces keep readers moving forward<\/strong>, absorbing your message without the friction.<\/p>\n

Put it into practice<\/h3>\n

Even simple adjustments can transform how your audience interacts with your content. Consider:<\/p>\n